Key Facts
• On July 1, Joetsu Mayor Kanta Nakagawa criticized rice from Sanda City as ‘bad.’
• Two days later, he reiterated the comment during a discussion with local students.
• Sanda Mayor Tamura sent a formal protest, calling the remarks unethical.
• Joetsu residents apologized online, expressing embarrassment over their mayor’s behavior.
• Nakagawa has a history of 10 inappropriate remarks since taking office in 2021.
• Past comments include discriminatory statements about private schools and local workers.
• In 2024, Joetsu City Council issued a resignation recommendation against Nakagawa.
• Despite controversies, Nakagawa announced his candidacy for a second term in October 2025.
• Public criticism intensified, with 400 complaints filed after his earlier discriminatory remarks.
• Nakagawa apologized in June 2025 but continues to face scrutiny ahead of the election.
Summary
Joetsu Mayor Kanta Nakagawa sparked outrage after calling rice from Sanda City ‘bad,’ prompting a formal protest from Sanda’s mayor and public apologies from Joetsu residents. This incident adds to Nakagawa’s history of controversial remarks, including discriminatory comments about education and local workers. Since taking office in 2021, Nakagawa has faced 10 instances of public backlash for inappropriate statements. In 2024, Joetsu City Council recommended his resignation, though he remains in office. Despite widespread criticism and over 400 complaints, Nakagawa announced his bid for re-election in October 2025. His repeated missteps have become a focal point for voters, with many questioning his suitability for leadership.
